Michael Topping, 69, is accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend Bethany Whitwer in a violent attack at an Oceanside home. The body of Whitwer was found outside a residence on Fallen Leaf Road on April 7 after neighbors reported hearing screams and calling 911. Topping allegedly barricaded himself inside the home as officers arrived, leading to an hours-long standoff before allegedly stabbing himself in the stomach. This incident occurred after Whitwer reported an assault on Topping during an argument and an arrest on suspicion of domestic violence. Topp is being held without bail due to the severity of the alleged attack and his criminal history.